People typically associate driver training with new drivers – those who have never driven before and need to learn the basics before sitting their driving test. While they’re not wrong, even the most seasoned driver could do with a refresher on driving basics, so they can stay safe on the road.
In 2020, the Ministry of Transport New Zealand reported 320 road-related deaths. The causes of most road-related deaths are not due to impaired driving, but improper driving. Mistakes while driving can be costly, and sometimes even deadly.
Structured driver training is the best way to ensure drivers are confident and learn healthy driving habits. This means that when they get on the road, they are both confident and cautious – whether it’s their first or five-hundredth time behind the wheel.
While you often can’t prevent a car accident from happening, driver training can make it less likely to happen. Drivers are taught the best driving practices while on the road, which helps eliminate bad driving habits. Here are some things you need to know about driver training, why it’s important, and why everyone should do it at least once.
What is driver training?
Driver training comprises structured courses that are taught in a classroom and on the road. It gives people the skill, knowledge, and confidence to be better drivers. They teach skills that can help you reduce the likelihood of being involved in a vehicle crash, such as scanning your surroundings while driving, detecting hazards, and managing risks.
For new drivers, it is a useful way to gain an initial knowledge of driving basics, which they can then apply while practising with a family member or other support person. For restricted licence holders, completing a Defensive Driving Course can fast track them to getting their full licence more quickly and increases their chances of passing their driving test first time. It also makes them a safer driver.
What do you learn in driver training?
When drivers are properly trained, the risk of accidents is reduced in several important ways. First, they are reminded of driver safety best practice and are therefore less likely to adopt risky driving behaviours. While in driver training, any bad habits that they’ve picked up from observing other drivers can be identified and resolved.
They will also learn to identify hazards, such as poor weather conditions and heavy traffic. This will help them prepare for them and react appropriately when they’re encountered.
Drivers also learn how to be more comfortable while driving, including understanding ergonomics, such as how to reduce pain and fatigue. This will improve a driver’s concentration and overall wellbeing, reduce the opportunity for road rage, and encourage safer vehicle operation.
3 types of driver training courses
1. Supplementary driver training
Supplementary driver training is learning how to drive a special type of vehicle on the road and getting an endorsement for this vehicle added to your licence. Examples are forklifts and tractors. A driver learns how to operate these vehicles and to safely navigate and handle them on the road. Find out more about the requirements from New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.
2. Defensive driver training
Defensive driving courses teaches people how to become safer and more skilful drivers on the road. It provides them with the necessary tools to avoid or overcome driving situations that could have proven difficult or even disastrous under normal conditions.
It also gives restricted licence holders a time reduction on their licence. If you’re under 25 years old the time period reduces from 18 months to 12 months and, if you’re 25 years and older, it reduces from 6 months to 3 months. Defensive driving is usually aimed at younger drivers.
3. Advanced driver training
Advanced driving courses have a similar learning curriculum to defensive driving courses but are aimed at all types of drivers.